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Most people are quick to dismiss online forums as a viable money making option in 2014, but what you might not know is that forums generate the second highest earnings per click (EPC) when compared to other types of online publications. In their recent Q4 Content-Commerce Report, link optimization company VigLink offers up some interesting findings and explains why they’re excited for the future of online forums.

The first and arguably most important takeaway from VigLink’s report is that online forums are generating more earnings per click than pinboard, blog, and editorial sites, and are second only to coupon and deal sites. While at first glace this may seem surprising, it’s important to take into consideration the fact that forums are places for highly specific, engaged users go to find answers to their questions and solutions to their problems. People on forums are actively seeking out products and services that they want or need, thus, they’re more valuable to advertisers and brands.

The second takeaway is that the forum space is gearing up for a makeover that will make forums user experience better overall, which will translate to more interest, more users, more clicks, and more revenue. With companies like Discourse reinventing forum software and revamping the look and feel of online forums, it’s only a matter of time before forums become massively successful marketing tools.

If you run a blog or online publication and you don’t already have a forum, now is the time to start one if you want to capitalize on their future earning potential. Already, forums are generating EPCs twice as high as blogs, and with an updated look and feel, the only place to go is up.

To find out more about VigLink and their Q4 report, visit their website.